Core Points - South Korean President Lee Jae-myung's visit to Japan before the United States marks a break from the traditional protocol of prioritizing a visit to the U.S. after taking office [1][5] - The meeting between Lee and Japanese Prime Minister Kishida Fumio resulted in a joint statement, the first of its kind in 17 years, focusing on security cooperation and collaboration in hydrogen energy and artificial intelligence [2][3] Group 1: Shift in Attitude Towards Japan - Lee Jae-myung's previous strong stance on historical issues has shifted since taking office, emphasizing the need for mutual benefits and cooperation rather than dwelling on past grievances [3][8] - The change in Lee's approach is seen as a necessity for governance, moving from opposition to a more inclusive diplomatic stance [3][8] Group 2: Strategic Coordination Against U.S. Pressure - Lee's decision to visit Japan first is interpreted as a strategic move to better prepare for discussions with U.S. President Trump, amid ongoing trade and defense pressures from the U.S. [5][7] - Analysts suggest that coordinated positions between South Korea and Japan could enhance their negotiating power with the U.S. [7] Group 3: Historical Issues Remain a Challenge - Despite the current diplomatic engagement, historical issues are expected to continue to pose challenges in South Korea-Japan relations, with entrenched views on both sides [8][10] - The rise of right-wing political forces in Japan complicates the potential for reconciliation on historical grievances, as these groups often resist acknowledging wartime responsibilities [10]